Starting kindergarten is a major milestone for both children and parents. For many families, it marks the beginning of an exciting educational journey filled with new routines, friendships, and learning experiences. While this is an exciting first step, it can also bring questions and uncertainty for first-time kindergarten parents. At BASIS Charter Schools, we believe that strong school-family relationships create the foundation for a positive educational experience. That’s why we provide families with the tools, resources, and guidance they need to help prepare their child for success from day one.
Here are some helpful tips for parents as they begin their child’s kindergarten journey.
Creating a Smooth Transition to School
The first weeks of kindergarten are more than just letters and numbers. They are crucial for helping children build confidence, establish routines, and feel comfortable in a new environment. To support this transition, BASIS Charter Schools offers opportunities for families to become familiar with school expectations, procedures, and daily routines before the school year begins. Through school-based events, regular parent communications, and campus resources, families gain valuable insights into what their child’s school day will look like and how they can help prepare their little one at home.
Parent Tip: Simple practices like consistent bedtime routines, encouraging independence with everyday tasks, and talking positively about school, can make a meaningful difference in helping your child feel ready leading up to their first day of kindergarten.
Establish Academic Foundations for Lifelong Learning
Kindergarten is an important year for developing foundational academic skills. BASIS Charter Schools students engage in an accelerated and engaging learning environment, designed to foster curiosity, critical thinking, and a love of learning. Each Kindergarten classroom is led by two co-teachers, an Early Education Teacher and Kindergarten Teaching Fellow, who help students become familiar with the learning process, and their early literacy, phonic, and numeracy skills.
Parent Tip: Rather than focusing solely on academic achievement, we encourage families to celebrate progress, perseverance, and curiosity. These habits lay the groundwork for future success throughout a student’s educational journey.
Helping Your Child Build Independence
One of the most important skills kindergarten students develop is independence. Learning how to follow routines, organize belongings, make smart choices, and solve age-appropriate challenges helps children gain confidence in their abilities. By instilling independence early, children enter kindergarten feeling capable and empowered, ready to embrace new experiences, take on challenges, and grow as confident learners. BASIS Charter Schools encourage students to take ownership of their education and schoolwork beyond the classroom.
Parent Tip: Parents can support this growth by encouraging children to complete simple tasks on their own, such as putting away backpacks, selecting clothing for the next day, or practicing responsibility at home. These small moments help children develop self-confidence and prepare them for success in the classroom.
Stay Connected with Your School Community
A strong connection between home and school can make a meaningful difference in a child’s kindergarten experience. At BASIS Charter Schools, we encourage families to stay engaged through regular communication, school events, parent-teacher conferences, and campus activities. Staying connected helps parents better understand their child’s progress, celebrate milestones, and build relationships within the school community. Beyond the classroom, BASIS Charter Schools offer students a variety of ways to stay connected through after-school clubs, athletics, community events, and festivals.
Parent Tip: Make it a habit to review school communications each week and set aside time to talk with your child about their school experiences. Small, consistent conversations can help you stay informed and involved throughout the school year.
Tour our schools to learn more about our kindergarten program!
A day of kindergarten at BASIS Charter Schools is a day in which each student learns something new and purposeful. Each school day adds up to a truly unique school year, and each student is set on a path where they learn to love learning.
Want to experience it for yourself? The best way to get a feel for what your kindergartner’s day will look like at BASIS Charter Schools is to visit! Find a school near you and schedule a tour today.
Are you a first-time kindergarten parent? We’re here to support you and your family through the kindergarten transition! Read our article “What to Expect as a Kindergarten Parent at BASIS Charter Schools.”
Note: Kindergarten schedules vary from school to school. Please reach out to your local BASIS Charter Schools campus for more information.
Laney Culp is the Head of School at BASIS Scottsdale Primary East
